The Bison – October 14, 1992

Minnesotans make choice for presidential campaign. As the candidates continue their climb to the White House, Minnesotans choose their picks for president. Information based on a poll which ran in the StarTribune on Friday, October 9.

The option of a metro line coming to Buffalo is becoming a major local issue. The metro line is a phone line that enables a person to call into the Twin Cities, or from the Twin Cities to Buffalo, for a small monthly fee. If a person would like to have the line put into their home, and they are a single family, it will cost about $17 a month. For frequent callers, it would be about $9 a month. “I’m for it because I want to talk to friends in places where it’s long distance to call and this way I could talk to them more often,” said sophomore Sarah Cairns. Some businesses in the Buffalo are willing to pay more money on their phone bill for the convenience the line into the Metro area would provide. “I’m for it. We do a lot of business accounts in the Metro area, but as far as saving money, no, not really. It will probably cost more, but it will be more convenient to our customers,” said Steve Poole of Wright Lumber and Millwork. There would be virtually no installation, the issue mainly pertains to the billing process. Because the price might increase residents have mixed feelings about the issue. Some students are leaning against the line, saying that they don’t call the metro area frequently enough to benefit from a metro line. “We make quite a few calls to the Cities, but I don’t know if it would be worth it, [to have the metro line],” said senior Tammy Zimmerman. Many of students do favor the line because of the many calls that they have made to the Twin Cities. “I have a lot of friends that live in Rockford. My dad works in the Twin Cities. It would be cheaper and easier to call them, [with the metro line],” said sophomore Amy Bokusky. A new metro line for the community of Buffalo would have both positive and negative consequences for many different people. At an as yet undetermined date in October, ballots will be mailed out to Buffalo residents. There will be a period of 60 to 90 days to mail the ballots with a vote to support or reject the new line.

May the best man win... or in this case, may the worst man lose. In past presidential elections, people have voted for the candidate possessing the best qualities and having a platform that closely follows their beliefs. Bill Clinton is presently leading in the polls, but most people are voting for him only because they do not like Bush. Is this a good process in which to choose the leader of our nation? Should we be picking the man that will lead our country through a process of elimination? Our current president, George Bush, has already shown us how his economic policy works... or really, how it doesn't. Bush has also shown through his administration that the environment is of little importance to his platform. He is pro-life, though, which to some may be the only positive thing on his side. Besides Bush, the Republican party has another burden to bear, the illiteracy poster-child, Mr. James Danforth Quayle. Quayle has humiliated himself time and time again, all in the name of the Republican party, (i.e. the Murphy Brown bashing, P-O-T-A-T-O-E, etc.). Realizing that our country is only a heartbeat away from having a man with a frightening level of incompetency as the leader of our nation, many voters seek a candidate with a running mate of equal intelligence and capabilities. Which, brings us to Clinton and his running mate, Tennessee Senator Al Gore. Yet, in reality, how much do we, as a nation, know about Clinton besides the fact that he played sax on the "Arsenio Hall Show?" He has been the governor of Arkansas since 1983. He has a super-mom lawyer for a wife. He is pro-choice, and supports the Freedom of Choice Act. He has a plan for economic growth: to invest more than $50 billion yearly in the next four years to get jobs for the American people. Clinton also plans to give our country a "...real environmental plan." His platform sounds good... well, better than Bush's. He also has the advantage of a respectable running mate who has an equal level of intelligence. We have another option to consider, though: Ross Perot. The indecisive man who is worth a lot in dollars, but would be practically worthless in the White House. When he first entered the race, people took him seriously, (sort of). Then, he dropped out, proving that when the going got tough, he wasn't going to deal with it. Do the people of our country really want a man so wishy-washy to be the President? Now, he has the nerve to enter the race again. This is sad, but what's even sadder, is the fact that people are still supporting him. The only thing that he is giving to this race is a clear sign of how far the quality of our elections has deteriorated. The choices keep getting harder and harder, but not because the candidates are better.

"Recycle" seems to be the word of the nineties. Around BHS, we recycle most everything except the air we breath. Pop cans are going towards "Project Eagle," the science teachers recycle glass, and teachers constantly encourage their students to recycle notes. Hold everything for a moment. There are going to be one million (give or take) pieces of unrecyclable paper floating around BHS this year: our adorable goldenrod hall passes. We've known for at least two years that goldenrod paper is not recyclable. So, why does the environmentally conscious school keep buying it? Can't they let it run out and live only in memories? Okay, mistakes happen. They realized the passes were unrecyclable after they printed them. So, maybe the color will change in the future. Then the counseling office sends out these support group pamphlets. What color do they chose? None other than the lovely goldenrod that's still not recyclable. Maybe they're trying to instill in us the saying, "Do as I say, not as I do," before we head out to face the real world. Until whichever until whichever administrators still haven't caught up with the nineties The Bison will continue to bring these stories in.

Dear Editor: After reading the first issue of the Bison, I must compliment all of you for the fine effort that was made in putting out a quality newspaper. While many of the articles were well written, I must take offense with the article that was called: "Football gets new coach..." When I first read the article I wondered if the writer had any compassion for the feelings of Mr. Schmeling, the former varsity football coach. When the article suggested that Mr. Schmeling "is sure to get pounded by the critics..." I first wondered whether it was right for a student to criticize the coaching of a person when that coach had no way to defend himself, and secondly, whether it's even right for a high school coach to be criticized in the same way that a professional coach or major college coach is by the media. Believet or not, high school coaches don't base their entire existence on wins and losses. To be openly criticized in a newspaper solely on winning and losing is not only unfair, it's not right! In the future, I hope the writers for The Bison will not abuse their privilege of freedom of the press and criticize coaches or players in our extracurricular programs just for the sake of criticizing. Instead, I hope all of your articles will show more compassion for those who are trying their best while representing our school as players and coaches. Neil Fletcher Social Studies Teacher

The editors of The Bison encourage the students of BHS to write Letters To The Editor as a form to express opinions. Letters are being accepted for the November issue of The Bison. The deadline for letters is November 6, 1992. The editorial staff has the right to decline or shorten letters.

A picture is worth a thousand words. So what happens if I only want 500 words, which is all the words I need to write? You can't have half a picture. It's either a picture or it's not. There is no half-way point.

There is a point in asking you that question. The point is people are becoming too picky with things. They act as if there is a definite right and wrong answer, and don't realize that people see things differently.

I still remember the English class in which I argued with my teacher on the meaning of the story. I thought the guy went away because he was worried and wanted to think, she said he went away because he wasn't worried so he figured there was no problem. There is no definite right answer.

Poetry is another example. How do you know that the poet wasn't just writing because they thought the sunrise and sunset were particularly pretty that day? Why do some English teachers insist that we look for the deep meanings of life and death in poetry? Besides, I don't want to learn the meaning of life. Because if we knew the meaning of life, wouldn't living be pointless?

But I digress.

In life, there are no right and wrong answers. Everything should be a compromise. My friends may not like some things I do, like swimming, and they may like playing other sports. However, they'll join me at the beach and we'll play catch with a tennis ball. We've compromised by being in water, and by doing something semi-sporty. We're all happy.

It's sort of like a black and white photograph. It is not completely black and white. There are shades of gray, too. Sometimes they're more black, and sometimes they're more white.

I learned in biology last year that we see in black in white, sometimes you way think you're seeing in color, but it's just your mind telling you what color it should be.

If you don't believe me, remember the last time you looked for a dark color car in the dark? The blues and greens and blacks and maroons all blend together and look the same. But if you would take a car and paint it with all those colors, you could tell that it was a multi-colored car. How? By the shades of grey.

Colors are a good way to show compromising. Sometimes they're shaded in your favor, sometimes they're more in your friend's or enemy's favor, just like there are many shades of every color.

People are not completely good or completely evil. We're all sort of inbetween. Some are more evil, some are more good, but we all have a bit of each. Nobody's perfect. We are all simply human, because that is all the more we ever can be.

It's time we all started considering the shades of gray that exist in this world; after all, black and white can get to be boring.

Maybe instead of always going to the people you know in a new class, go and introduce yourself to somebody new. Then you'll have a new friend, make a new person's day, and maybe someone else will go and talk to the new person also.

It's hard being in a new school with not an idea of who anyone else, but just making one friend would be a lot better then none at all.

There are times when there is a black and white answer. In math there is the right or wrong answer. One plus one will always equal two (well, most of the time, but I saw a math proof once that proved one equals zero. Therefore one plus one can equal any number you want it to.)

Life is not math. My problem could equal something totally different from your solution to the same problem.

So, until Halloween, the election, and Columbus Day and all its sales are all over and gone - Goodbye!

Midterms have come, and it's about that time where you have to write your first official paper of the year.

I, myself, dread doing this because, believe it or not, I have the worst time.

Teachers always tell you that there are about twenty different steps that you need to use to write an effective paper. When's the last time you checked for spelling and grammar mistakes in different steps of editing?

All of us know, that we can actually pass it off in four or five. Maybe less, depending on the amount of time we have to write it.

I have narrowed it down to the four steps that most students use, rather than the three billion that we're taught.

Research Your Subject

This involves going to the library during class to research your subject, in depth and thorough. This is also an excuse to stay after school with your friends and hang out.

Write a Rough Draft

Teachers always say that we should organize our notes before we start writing our rough draft. I have tried many times to organize my notes before, but it never works. I always get myself more confused, and while writing a report we don't need to be any more confused.

In this step you just sit down and write the little rough draft, and think to yourself that if you don't like how it comes out that you can just change it for your final copy. The only real problem with this is the computer. You never have enough time to finish during class. You sit and type as fast and hard as you can, and no matter how hard you try, it's never enough time.

This creates a problem, you have to go in during mods, and it's always full. So, you have to come in after school, which is utterly boring.

Final Editing

This is the stage when you hand your paper in to be corrected, or read, and the teacher hands it back with red marks all over it and says, "Here are the revisions you have to make. You have until the end of the hour."

You simply think to yourself, "great." You look up and you have five minutes left before the bell rings.

The Grand Finale

You're finally done revising, and you hand the Final Draft in to be graded. You sit and wonder for a while how well you did, or didn't do.

Finally, after days of worry, you get your paper back. The funny thing is, though, you don't care, because you're knee deep in working on the next research paper.

The never ending vicious circle of school.

How many worthwhile opportunities come around in a lifetime? I know the answer!! A LOT! But how many do you enjoy?

On September 28-30, I found myself among 47 other teens, from different districts, who shared the same goal(s).

Our goals were to ...
1. Meet new people.
2. Have fun.
3. Learn as much as possible about "Project for Teens."

This retreat was to gain knowledge on talking to younger kids in our community about sexuality, consequences of sexual relationships, and related topics, it was sponsored and funded by the state. MaryAnn Peterson, from the Wright County Courthouse, organized it.

Three days were spent listening to adult/student opinions, playing special learning games and skills, participating in multiple group discussions.

We, as one unit, put our thoughts and ideas together to create an atmosphere in which we were all equal. No group (adults or teens) dominated the seminar. Everyone was on an equal ground.

We played one learning game, which was quite effective and very eye opening. Each person was given a folded piece of paper which was not to be shown to anyone else. We then went around the room, introduced ourselves to five people, shook their hand and signed each other's paper. Once seated, all the people with an X on their paper had to stand- they were pronounced to have an STD. Everyone on their list was also effected with an STD- eventually everyone in the room became effected. (The handshake represented sexual intercourse. So, in a sense, everyone went around the block a few times.)

We then learned how to answer difficult questions an eighth grader might throw at us. We were taught to answer on the spur of the moment, with as much honesty as we're allowed. Yet at the same time, let them know the consequences. Before we allow them to ask questions, we are to tell the students that personal questions are frowned upon and wearer inclined to discourage that.

The purpose was not only for us to be informed and to inform "pre-teens", but also to learn interesting and attention grabbing techniques for teaching.

If younger kids see us as role models, we have to be seen as flexible, relaxed, and a tad on the weird side. We need to look/act as if we have the ability to think on the same path they do. Communication skills are very important. We're not just to teach, but also to understand.

This was an experience everyone should get a chance, at some point in their life, to have. All the people were incredibly honest and caring. No conversation could be more open, not with family, friends, or boyfriend/girlfriends.

From what we present, we are giving a foundation to help build an identity that younger students may be searching for. Promoting "AWARENESS" is the most important ingredient.

An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. If we make people aware of what's going on, there will be less "accidents."

May the best man win... or in this case, may the worst man lose.

In past presidential elections, people have voted for the candidate possessing the best qualities and having a platform that closely follows their beliefs.

Bill Clinton is presently leading in the polls, but most people are voting for him only because they do not like Bush. Is this a good process in which to choose the leader of our nation? Should we be picking the man that will lead our country through a process of elimination?

Our current president, George Bush, has already shown us how his economic policy works... or really, how it doesn't. Bush has also shown through his administration that the environment is of little importance to his platform. He is pro-life, though, which to some may be the only positive thing on his side.

Besides Bush, the Republican party has another burden to bear, the illiteracy poster-child, Mr. James Danforth Quayle. Quayle has humiliated himself time and time again, all in the name of the Republican party, (i.e. the Murphy Brown bashing, P-O-T-A-T-O-E, etc.). Realizing that our country is only a heartbeat away from having a man with a frightening level of incompetence as the leader of our nation, many voters seek a candidate with a running mate of equal intelligence and capabilities. Which, brings us to Clinton and his running mate, Tennessee Senator Al Gore.

Yet, in reality, how much do we, as a nation, know about Clinton besides the fact that he played sax on the "Arsenio Hall Show"?

He has been the governor of Arkansas since 1983. He has a super-mom lawyer for a wife. He is pro-choice, and supports the Freedom of Choice Act. He has a plan for economic growth: to invest more than $50 billion yearly in the next four years to get jobs for the American people.

Clinton also plans to give our country a "real environmental plan." His platform sounds good... well, better than Bush's. He also has the advantage of a respectable running mate who has an equal level of intelligence.

We have another option to consider, though: Ross Perot. The indecisive man who is worth a lot in dollars, but would be practically worthless in the White House. When he first entered the race, people took him seriously, (sort of). Then, he dropped out, proving that when the going got tough, he wasn't going to deal with it. Do the people of our country really want a man so wishy-washy to be the President?

Now, he has the nerve to enter the race again. This is sad, but what's even sadder, is the fact that people are still supporting him. The only thing that he is giving to this race is a clear sign of how far the quality of our elections has deteriorated.

The choices keep getting harder and harder, but not because the candidates are better.

"Recycle" seems to be the word of the nineties. Around BHS, we recycle most everything except the air we breath. Pop cans are going towards "Project Eagle," the science teachers recycle glass, and teachers constantly encourage their students to recycle notes.

Hold everything for a moment. There are going to be one million (give or take) pieces of unrecyclable paper floating around BHS this year: our adorable goldenrod hall passes.

We've known for at least two years that goldenrod paper is not recyclable. So, why does the environmentally conscious school keep buying it? Can't they let it run out and live only in memories?

Okay, mistakes happen. They realized the passes were unrecyclable after they printed them. So, maybe the color will change in the future.

Then the counseling office sends out these support group pamphlets. What color do they choose? None other than the lovely goldenrod that's still not recyclable.

Maybe they're trying to instill in us the saying, "Do as I say, not as I do," before we head out to face the real world.

Until whichever until whichever administrators still haven't caught up with the nineties The Bison will continue to bring these stories in.

How many worthwhile opportunities come around in a lifetime? I know the answer!! A LOT! But how many do you enjoy?

On September 28-30, I found myself among 47 other teens, from different districts, who shared the same goal(s).

Our goals were to ...
1. Meet new people.
2. Have fun.
3. Learn as much as possible about "Project for Teens."

This retreat was to gain knowledge on talking to younger kids in our community about sexuality, consequences of sexual relationships, and related topics, it was sponsored and funded by the state. MaryAnn Peterson, from the Wright County Courthouse, organized it.

Three days were spent listening to adult/student opinions, playing special learning games and skills, participating in multiple group discussions.

We, as one unit, put our thoughts and ideas together to create an atmosphere in which we were all equal. No group (adults or teens) dominated the seminar. Everyone was on an equal ground.

We played one learning game, which was quite effective and very eye opening. Each person was given a folded piece of paper which was not to be shown to anyone else. We then went around the room, introduced ourselves to five people, shook their hand and signed each other's paper. Once seated, all the people with an X on their paper had to stand- they were pronounced to have an STD. Everyone on their list was also effected with an STD- eventually everyone in the room became effected. (The handshake represented sexual intercourse. So, in a sense, everyone went around the block a few times.)

We then learned how to answer difficult questions an eighth grader might throw at us. We were taught to answer on the spur of the moment, with as much honesty as we're allowed. Yet at the same time, let them know the consequences. Before we allow them to ask questions, we are to tell the students that personal questions are frowned upon and wearer inclined to discourage that.

The purpose was not only for us to be informed and to inform "pre-teens", but also to learn interesting and attention grabbing techniques for teaching.

If younger kids see us as role models, we have to be seen as flexible, relaxed, and a tad on the weird side. We need to look/act as if we have the ability to think on the same path they do. Communication skills are very important. We're not just to teach, but also to understand.

This was an experience everyone should get a chance, at some point in their life, to have. All the people were incredibly honest and caring. No conversation could be more open, not with family, friends, or boyfriend/girlfriends.

From what we present, we are giving a foundation to help build an identity that younger students may be searching for. Promoting "AWARENESS" is the most important ingredient.

An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. If we make people aware of what's going on, there will be less "accidents."

When you leave your familiar surroundings and come to another country it can make you think just a little bit differently. 12 different students from eight countries have come foreign exchange students to our school this year. Along with learning about a new culture these students get to make friends and learn things that will stay with them forever.

How are American school systems different?

Ola- “We have compulsory school from ages seven to fifteen, and then most of the students continue into secondary school. We don’t get to chose (classes).”

Diego- “We have thirteen classes a year. School starts at 7:00 a.m to 12:30 p.m. We don’t have lunch at school. You can go home. We also have if you go to day or night. They have three turns (rotations) of school. Like if you wanted to work in the morning, you can go nights, afternoons, or any time you want. Classes, you don’t get to chose.”

Laura- “The next three years, I go to a senior high school, in a different system than yours. Everyday is different. Sometimes we go to school ateight o’clock, sometimes we go at ten. And then in five weeks, we have a test week, in which we test on the previous five weeks. In our last year of high school, we have the same schedule for the entire year.”

Kim- “There are no school sports. Only two hours a week, we have gymnastics or something like that. The system of tardies is that the teacher comes to your class, when the bell rings. If we do have to move, we don’t just have five minutes, we have fifteen minutes. And our classes our only forty five minutes long. In Denmark, we graduate in ninth or tenth grade, it’s your choice.”

Par- “In Sweden, the lunches are free. We don’t need passes to go to the restroom, we can just leave for breaks. We also have twenty or forty minutes between classes, and one hour for lunches.”

Stephanie- “We have an afternoon school, Americans have lunch in school, and in Germany you leave school to get your lunch.”

Sini- “Brakes are much shorter, lunches are free. We also don’t have lockers, we just carry our bags wherever we go.”

Carsten- “We have no place in Berlin so our schools have four floor school. (Schools are) lots smaller than here.”

Malte- “It is more strict here. But it’s also easier here too.”

Gloria- “(Schools are) better but changing classes makes it difficult to make friends.”

Do you notice any major attitude differences between your country and the students here?

Diego- “(Americans) don’t like homework. In Brazil if you don’t do homework for the next day, you can’t do anything in class, because you need the homework towards the next thing you study.”

Purvie- “In Bombay we never have any homework, so when I’m here, I’m doing a lot of homework. The whole evening I’m spending doing homework, because I’ve never gotten so much homework in my life!”

Kim- “Five years. You have to take English in Denmark.”

Stephanie- “Five years.”

Malte- “Six years.”

Elisabeth- “Seven years.”

Purvi- “Thirteen years.”

What have you found to be the most difficult?

Laura- “No transportation, no (public) buses, and those kinds of things. The cheese is also different.”

Par- “The bread. It’s just white -- nothing good.”

Malte- “Understanding the American laws, and government.”

Elisabeth- “If you want to go places you can not use public transportation, like buses and taxies”

What is the funniest question you’ve been asked?

Kim- “Do we have telephones in Denmark?”

Par- “Do you have TV in Sweden and, is it just snow all over Sweden?”

Laura- “Do you speak English in Finland?”

Stephanie- “They all ask about Mercedes cars.”

Sini- “How is it going? That is the only question I’m ever asked in the halls.”

Gloria- “Do you know how to use a dictionary?”

What was your first impression of the United States or of Buffalo Senior High?

Stephanie- “The U.S. is much larger. Not the people, but the area. Our town, in Germany, has more people, but in less area. The school is much busier with many more people.”

Gloria- “When I arrived here, I thought everything was very different. The school and the town, because I didn’t know how the town and the school were going to be like. I like a lot here, the people are very funny! I had a very good first impression.”

Kim- “I was very pleased, but I didn’t know where it was. Then I found out and I thought ‘Well, it’s probably the best place.’ I would rather have been in a bigger town, but know when I know Buffalo, I wouldn’t. I am also very surprised that everyone welcomes me, and are very friendly to you.”

Purvi- “I had never heard of Buffalo. I was under the impression that it was Buffalo, New York.”

What do you do for fun in the United States?

Carsten- “Playing soccer.”

Kim- “I play soccer on the JV team, and in the spring I will joing the tennis team. I also go to movies and football games or sometimes just hang around with friends.”

Gloria- “I couldn’t do many things, because I arrived here one month ago. On weekends, I go to parties, Mall of America, or to the cabin with my host family.”

What is the best new food you’ve eaten?

Carsten- “The food my hostmother makes.”

Gloria- “I like the macaroni and cheese, very much.”

Kim- “The only “new” things I’ve eaten are fried onion rings and grilled marshmallows, and out of those two, I like the onion rings the most!”

Staff Writer

For the past 12 years, the International club has been introducing the foreign exchange students to students at Buffalo Senior High. It has also brought to enable students to make them have a better understanding that there was other countries outside the United States.

“It give the students the chance to meet the exchange students. We [the International Club advisors], give students a place to meet, and then they make the connections from there,” said Spanish teacher Pam Ramstad.

There are no set requirements for joining this activity. All you have to do is be interested in meeting the exchange students, playing games, and trying international foods.

“It’s mostly for the foreign exchange students to get to know people at Buffalo, but also get them involved,” said Spanish teacher Mrs. Crocker.

International club recently held a “get to know the exchange students” activity. There students socialized and received a chance to meet and talk with the exchange students, or other students, while playing games and making memorable moments.

“International club is good because it’s about making friendships and building other friendships,” said exchange student Purive Pandit.

The club has had two active events and has had one planning meeting. The first event was, the International Club Volleyball game. And the second was, “get to know the foreign exchange students” night.

“I think our activity gets all kids together, who normally might be hesitant to associate with each other,” said German teacher Maija Zaecka.

If you are interested in joining this club, you can talk to one of the foreign language teachers and they can inform you of the next get together.

For the past 12 years, the International club has been introducing the foreign exchange students at Buffalo Senior High. It has also brought to enable students to make them have a better understanding that there was other countries outside the United States.

“It give the students the chance to meet the exchange students. We [the International Club advisors], give students a place to meet, and then they make the connections from there,” said Spanish teacher Pam Ramstad.

There are no set requirements for joining this activity. All you have to do is be interested in meeting the exchange students, playing games, and trying international foods.

“It’s mostly for the foreign exchange students to get to know people at Buffalo, but also get them involved,” said Spanish teacher Mrs. Crocker.

International club recently held a “get to know the exchange students” activity. There students socialized and received a chance to meet and talk with the exchange students, or other students, while playing games and making memorable moments.

“International club is good because it’s about making friendships and building other friendships,” said exchange student Purvi Pandit.

The club has had two active events and has had one planning meeting. The first event was, the International Club Volleyball game. And the second was, “get to know the foreign exchange students” night.

“I think our activity gets all kids together, who normally might be hesitant to associate with each other,” said German teacher Maija Zaeska.

If you are interested in joining this club, you can talk to one of the foreign language teachers and they can eform you of the next get together.

The cross country teams are preparing for conference and regional meets as both teams look toward the state tournament. Coach Gerry Bakke said that the girls have a good chance of going to the state tournament again this year. “The girls are fifth in state and have a good chance for [winning regions],” said Bakke. Team members said that their biggest threats at the regional meet will be Monticello and Mankato West. As for the conference run, Bakke said that they would have to be careful. “We’ll have to watch Mounds View and St. Francis in conference, they’re our biggest threats,” said Bakke. Team members are already setting their sights toward the state tournament. “We’ve already sent six teams to state, and we’re hoping to send another one,” said senior Becky Loberg, who holds the state records for cross country and track in the 1,600 and 3,200 meter runs. For the boys, Bakke said that although Buffalo ranks third or fourth in the state, Mankato West will probably win the regional run. Bakke explained that as a team, the boys are inexperienced, but improving all the time. The whole team has a generally upbeat attitude towards this season. Bakke said they won the Hutchinson meet under a lot of pressure and are having a great year. There is currently a fundraiser for the Sherry Rooter Memorial Scholarship. The boys' and girls' teams are competing to see who can raise the most money. If the girls win, the boys take them out to dinner and vice versa. The girls also have a separate deal with Bakke. If the girls manage to come up with $1,000, Bakke has promised to wear a dress to school for a day. If they can get $1,500, he promises to dance to “I Am A Woman” during lunch mods.

The Bison volleyball team is looking to rebound after beginning the season with a 3-9 record. Volleyball team members said that one of the big problems was easing up on the other team when the Bison had the lead. “We let up for two to three minutes and then we lose the match,” said senior Tracy Hansen. However, despite the team’s record, some team members feel that they’re doing a good job, and are just facing tough teams in the conference. “Right now, I think that we have the best team we’ve ever had, even though the record doesn’t show it,” said junior Katie Kettenacker. According to the players, the morale of the team hasn’t been affected by the losses. Team members said that they support their teammates and get along with each other very well. “We’re all real good friends, in school and out,” said Kettenacker. Some members feel that the team can do well in the playoffs. One of the team’s goals is to win their first region match, which has eluded the team in past seasons and eliminated them from the playoffs. “I think we’re going to do better [in the playoffs] than we’ve done before,” said Kettenacker. Other team members agreed that the team has a better chance in the playoffs, but they need to focus on the rest of the regular season. “We have to concentrate on winning some games first [before the playoffs],” said Hansen.

The Bison football team began setting its sights toward the playoffs when the Bison defeated Centennial, 24-0, winning their third game in a row. Team members feel that the team should be able to do well in the playoffs, especially if they win a fourth game. “Our playoff chances are as good as anyone else’s,” said junior Aaron DeMarais. “We should go a long way.” The victory over Centennial marked the first Homecoming win for Buffalo in several years. While the football team was happy to win the game, several players said that it was like any other game. “I think it was a good win,” said senior Josh Sandell. “The fact that it was Homecoming adds something.” Coach Gerard Rohl said that the victory was like winning any other game and the fact that it was Homecoming didn’t matter. “It’s just another step towards the playoffs,” said Rohl. “Getting into the playoffs is our big goal.” Team members said that the team is working well and that all of the areas are really strong. However, they said that they could still improve. “As long as we keep working hard, we’ll get better and better,” said DeMarais. The spirit of the team is very high. Players stressed that the whole team was working toward a good season. “The team is united and together. It makes playing that much more fun,” said Sandell. Rohl said that he was pleased with how the team was performing, both on the field and off. “[The players] are doing great, and working hard,” said Rohl. “They’re doing all the little things right, and helping each other out.”

The BHS soccer team came into existence four years ago as an intramural club. The team was formed because of pressure on the school from members of the Buffalo Soccer Club and their families.

The following year, the soccer team began competitive play with a junior varsity and a ninth grade team. Buffalo also joined the North Suburban Conference that year.

Last year, the team began playing at the varsity level. The program continues to have junior varsity and ninth grade teams.

When the intramural team began in 1988, it was meant to be open for both boys and girls that were interested in playing soccer. However, it was apparent the following year that there were more boys interested in a competitive team. It was also apparent that other schools in the North Suburban had separate boys’ and girls’ teams.

My question is: If there was talk of BHS getting a girls’ soccer team, would there be enough students interested to form at least one team? Would it be worth the school’s money? How would it affect other fall girls’ sports?

Every year since the J.V. team was started, there has been at least one girl on one of the soccer squads. Halfway through this season, sophomore Jessica Klarstrom joined the junior var-

sity soccer team, leaving cross country, while several freshman girls have played all year.

Another fact for having a girls’ soccer team is that BHS is one of many Minnesota schools that have one more boys’ sport than girls’ sports, violating state law. Forming a girls’ soccer team would even things out.

What do the rest of you BHS students feel about having a girls’ soccer team? Is it a possibility for the future? Is there enough support? And how do you “guys” feel about having another sport for the girls?

I am leaving this open to you, the readers. If you have an opinion, drop it off at room C-5, marked: The Bison, Letter to the Editor - Girls’ Socc er. Comments from some of the letters received by November 4 will be printed in the next “What Bo Doesn’t Know.”

CROSS COUNTRY - The boys’ team placed sixth at the Deer Run Invite, on Tuesday, October 6, with 167 points. The girls won the meet with 43 points. The next meet for both teams is the conference meet at Majestic Oaks Golf Course on Tuesday, October 20, starting at 4 p.m. The girls are currently ranked second in the state, with junior Lisa Aro ranked as the state’s best runner after winning Deer Run in 12 minutes and 11 seconds.

GIRLS’ TENNIS - The girls’ tennis team completed their regular season with a 8-6 record, placing them third in the North Suburban Conference. The first round of individual divisions were at Hutch on Monday, October 12. The team hosts Chaska this afternoon at 3:30 p.m. in the first round of division play.

FOOTBALL - The football team lost to Spring Lake Park, 16-7, on Friday, October 9. The next game for the team is tonight when they host Elk River, beginning at 7 p.m.

SOCCER - The soccer team lost to Spring Lake Park, 3-1, on Thursday, October 8. The team completed the regular season last night at Mounds View, and plays its first Section game tomorrow.

SWIMMING - The swim team lost to Centennial, 105-81, on Thursday, October 8. The next match for the team is Tuesday, October 20, at Litchfield, starting at 6 p.m.

VOLLEYBALL - The varsity volleyball team defeated Elk River, 15-6 15-8 15-10, on Thursday, October 8. The team plays at the Benilde St. Margaret Tournament on Saturday, October 17, with the first match starting at 9 a.m.

GIRLS’ BASKETBALL - Practices for the girls' basketball team begin on Monday, November 16.

GYMNASTICS - Practices for the gymnastics team begin on Monday, November 16.

SLALOM SKI TEAM - Practices for both the boys' and girls' ski teams begin on Monday, November 9.

The Girls Cross-country team after winning 1st place at Princeton Front Row: Jenney Fiedler, Alicia Heisel, Lisa Aro. Back Row: Becky Loberg, Dana Renko, Jessica Heisel, Erin Buslemeier

Junior Corey Schmittalla fielded the soccer ball as a St. Francis forward attacked him in the 8-2 lost to the Saints on Thursday, October 1. The soccer team had a 2-11 record going into the game against Robbinsdale Cooper on Saturday, October 11. The team finished the regular season last night at Mounds View.

Yell cheerleaders Deanne Norberg, Kim Myer, Tina Holmquist, and Angie Gruber at a soccer game at BHS last week.

On October 12th, the people of our nation celebrated the 500th anniversary of Christopher Columbus landing on the coast of one of the Bahamian Islands. Many people wonder, however, exactly how much credit should be given to this man for “discovering” the Americas. “I don't think he deserves any credit. He didn't discover it, he just landed on it,” said junior Sharalee Strand. Others feel that Columbus has a major part in our heritage as Americans. “I think Columbus deserves the hero status he has, because finding a new world doesn't happen daily,” said sophomore Ryan Weiche. Whether or not Columbus actually found a “new world” has been a much debated topic in the past and continues to generate various and often opposing views today. “I think Columbus claimed the land falsely. People were already here and were settled. It wasn't this,” said sophomore Erika Nelson. Many students feel that Columbus took advantage with the Native Americans, who had already inhabited the land and had been living there long before Columbus came. “Columbus approached the Indians the wrong way. He and the rest of his people just came and said it was theirs. They didn't try to compromise with the Natives,” said senior Jen Meyer. Columbus was not on his mission to convert the Native Americans alone, and some people feel that too much condemnation has been placed solely upon him. “You can't blame him as an individual, because the society of the times indicated the roles of non-whites as 'blood thirsty savages' to be treated like dirt,” said sophomore Chris Wessman. The observation of Columbus Day is another topic that people have varying opinions on. “It's just another day of the year to me,” said freshman Bob Fix. Some students believe, however, that Columbus Day is of great significance, and should be honored as the National Holiday that it is. “(If it wasn't for him) America might not have been discovered until many years later, and wouldn't it be a world leading industrialized nation like it is today,” said freshman Steve Runyan. Regardless of how different people feel about Christopher Columbus, one fact remains true: Columbus and his company opened up America for all of Europe to explore. Whether people perceive this as an act of greed or genius is a matter of personal inclination.

A new director, a 32 person cast, elaborate props, scenery, and costumes set the stage for “My Fair Lady,” one of the biggest productions for BHS to perform in recent years. Making her debut as BHS drama director is English teacher Tracy Hagstrom-Dahl, who recently transferred to BHS from Foley High School. Hagstrom-Dahl chose to run this as her first production in BHS for a variety of reasons. “I wanted to do something really traditional so that everybody would recognize the title,” said Hagstrom-Dahl. “I thought that was important because, with the change from Mr. Swenson to me, it's hard to get people to trust you.” The lead starring roles in the play are Eliza Doolittle, played by senior Laurie Miller, Professor Higgins, played by senior Brad Elo, Colonel Pickering, played by senior Tim Kelly, Mrs. Pierce, played by freshman Amanda Falkowski-Scott, and Mrs. Higgins, played by senior Cormey Collins. Not everyone who tried out was hoping for a large part. Many simply wanted the dramatic experience. “I'm only in the chorus, so it gives me a chance to be in the play, but I don't have the pressure of being in a lead role,” said senior Beth Husom. Another experience sought after by many is going to turn out,” said Elo. “If we're horsing around and having fun all the time, it's going to it's to be a fun play to do, and a fun play to see.” A part of the drama department which sometimes is forgotten are the technical crews. In total there are some 67 students signed up to work in the various crews, some of which are also a part of the cast. One concern for many in and associated with the play is that of the communities attendance and reaction to the play. “There's going to be a lot of people who will know the title who are going to come and see it anticipating a 'high school job,'” said Miller. “I think they're going to be very pleasantly surprised at how professional it's going to look and how good the actors are.”

Tri-M, Modern Music Masters, is currently planning a new year of activities. Tri-M is a program which recognizes outstanding music students. The purpose of the organization is to encourage solos and ensembles by offering an opportunity to share common interests in music. “Most people take a strong music program like Buffalo's for granted, but it takes a lot of time and hard work,” said choir director and Tri-M advisor, Mike Walsh. To become a member of the program, most students are recommended by Walsh or band teacher Rolf Mohwinkle, but students can express an interest in joining through talking with either teacher. The selection process is then started when the student (who should be an active member in Buffalo High School's music program) performs a solo ensemble for the student officers. “I wanted to be in Tri-M because I love music and hope to major in it in college,” said senior Annette Carlson. The officers for the '92-'93 school year are: senior Tim Kelly, President; senior Laurie Miller, Vice President; senior Corney Collins, Secretary; junior Nori Heino, Treasurer; and senior Tammy Zimmerman, Historian. “I think that the purpose of (Tri-M) is to get students more involved in music, but we need more participation from members,” said Carlson. Tentative plans have been made to attend productions of “Handel's Messiah” and “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat.” “I like it because you get to experience higher culture things like the Bolshoi Ballet we went to see last year as high school students,” said senior Julie Fiedler. Other possible activities include singing telegrams on Valentine's Day, a solo and ensemble banquet, and concerts at the Intermediate School. There will also be inductions in November and April. “I wanted to be in it because it was a chance to be with like-minded individuals who have a fine taste for the arts,” said senior Brad Elo. One of the things that Walsh hopes to achieve during the year is to maintain and build the BHS chapter of Tri-M into an award winning program. “I hope to enter the chapter of the year contest. Hopefully we will win - we'll give it our best shot,” said Walsh.

Seniors Julie Fiedler, Tim Kelly, Dan McDonald, and Kelly Omann were named Commended Students in the 1993 National Merit Scholarship Program. 35,000 nationwide are being honored for their outstanding performance on the 1991 PSAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test which entered them in the 1993 Merit Program. The seniors placed among the top 5% of more than one million program entrants.

October 15, 1992 has been designated as “Turn Off Violence Day.” The “Turn Off Violence Commission” is asking that people look for an alternative to violent television books, as entertainment.

There will be a Band Concert on November 10, 1992 in the Senior High Mall at 8:00 p.m. In addition to the Concert Band and Symphony Bands I and II, the Marching Band, “The Herd”, will also be performing music from their fall season.